It’s that time, boxes full of ornaments are pulled out of storage and dusted off, ready for a new holiday season.  It’s an event in itself, rediscovering beloved holiday decor.

But have you ever stood in front of your bare Christmas tree, first ornament in hand, and thought, “Hmmmm.  Where to start?”

You’re not alone.  As much as we love our treasured ornaments, sometimes what’s in order is a little inspiration to spice up the Christmas tree and give it that little extra sparkle.

So consider the following when decorating your tree this year…with just a tad extra planning your tree this year can be one talked about for years to come!

Layer, Layer, Layer. Bundle inexpensive bulb ornaments in groups of three and place them towards the center of the tree, all together on one branch.  Then place special, focal ornaments in front of them.  The three bulbs will serve as a backdrop, reflecting and enhancing the more precious ornaments in front.  Play with different color options:  three bulbs in one color or different colors, contrasting color with focal ornament, monochromatic, etc.

Think of Scents…and Sounds. When selecting ornaments, don’t forget the other senses.  Memory is triggered a great deal by scent, and sounds bring a special something extra to a moment.  So trim that tree with sticks of cinnamon, oranges covered in cloves, or gingerbread cookies as well as bells and chimes.  Then close your eyes and take a deep breath in…while listening to the jingling sounds of the season.

Go Big and Bold!  Choose a Color Palette. Want to really make a statement this year?  Try out a specific color palette for your Christmas tree.  Red and gold is a great place to start…but why not go REALLY bold?  Blue and white?  Orange and teal?  Or perhaps only metallics?  If you don’t want to start with a new slew of ornaments, look through your ornaments and see if there is a trend…and then build upon it.  Don’t forget to weave in some spiraled wire-edged ribbon around the tree along with some glittery lights.

Go Country! No matter what your aesthetic style is in your home, something about Christmas brings out the “Country” in a lot of us.  Gingham, plaid, dusty colors, pine-cones, Santa figurines with button eyes…the country style just seems to fit with Christmas.  So even if your home is mid-century modern, don’t be afraid of that hand-hammered beaded copper wreath ornament…just go with the country style for the season.

Keep it Simple. If nothing else feels right, perhaps what you need is a gentle touch this season.  You don’t need to put ALL of your ornaments on the tree…you don’t need tinsel, garland, colored lights.  Maybe what’s in order is a sweet, simple tree trimmed just with your most meaningful ornaments.  That may inspire the best holiday season of all.